Asean leaders depart after summit, focus set on '3Cs'

The just concluded India-Asean commemorative summit emphasised on three Cs — commerce, culture, and connectivity — as well as taking a resolution to work collectively to counter terrorism and radicalisation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered to host an international conference with the help of Asean nations, particularly Indonesia and Malaysia, to study the issue of extremism and radicalisation that often manifest into terror activities.

Secretary (East) Preeti Saran said that leaders shared their experiences to tackle spread of extremism through digital media. "They had some positive experiences of de-radicalisation. It was felt that they can be put to use in other regions to tackle the menace," she said.

Saran also said that the leaders collectively appreciated India's role in the Indo-Pacific region to ensure peace and stability.

Philippines and Malaysia also wanted to know about India's push towards a cashless India.

On the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi held bilateral talks with nine leaders. While he had met seven leaders on Thursday night, he held meetings with his Malaysian counterpart Nazib Razak on Friday, focusing on ways to enhance counter-terror cooperation and boost ties in areas of defence, trade, and investment.

The leaders also participated in the At Home reception hosted by President Ram Nath Kovind in Rashtrapati Bhawan.

India also bestowed 10 Padma Awards to one individual from each Asean country to promote India's ties with the 10-member bloc.